Maybe teammates had been so used to LeBron James needing his headband, whether it’s for comfort or appearance. Fighting for his life in these NBA Finals, fighting for his basketball stature, this accessory was the last thing James had on his mind in Game 6. Read More. Written by Shams Charania on Jun 19, 2013
Brandon Roy has narrowed his list of free agent options to the Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks, Indiana Pacers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors, according to sources.
Roy expects to meet with those teams over the next few days in Seattle.
Each of the teams have a special intrigue for Roy.
Donnie Walsh has been named Indiana's president of basketball operations while Kevin Pritchard will be the general manager.
Larry Bird will work Thursday's draft but is leaving the organization.
"I had this conversation with different people that you can be in one place too long," said Bird. "I just think it's time. I think it's the right time."
Walsh will have the final call on personnel moves.
David Morway has resigned as General Manager of the Pacers.
Morway was originally hired in January, 1999, as Vice President of Basketball Administration and was promoted to General Manager in April, 2008. When Morway was hired as General Manager of the Pacers, the franchise initiated a rebuilding plan that culminated this year with a 42-24 record and an appearance in the second round of the playoffs against the Miami Heat.
"I've had a terrific 13-plus years with the franchise,” said Morway. “The performance of this year's team both on and off the court was incredibly rewarding. To experience Bankers Life Fieldhouse full to the rafters again, with an energy reminiscent of the late 90s, and to see our fan base re-engaged and proud made it all worthwhile.
“While I deeply care about this franchise, sometimes change is important for everyone concerned. For the past year I have carefully and thoughtfully considered my personal, family and professional goals. After discussing all of these issues with our owner, Herb Simon, and Larry (Bird, President of Basketball Operations), I believe this is the right time to step away.
“I want to thank Mr. Simon, Larry, (former team president) Donnie Walsh and (team president) Jim Morris for the opportunity they gave me and the friendship and mentorship they provided. I also want to thank everyone associated with the franchise, including all of the players, our coaches and our terrific staff as well as the Indianapolis community and all of our fans for giving me and my family the opportunity to be part of Pacers’ basketball for the last 13-plus years"
“We are very appreciative of David’s efforts the entire time he has been here,” said Simon. “His work ethic and dedication to making this franchise better was unwavering through many good times and some difficult times. Whatever direction his professional future takes him, I’m certain he will have success and a positive impact.”
Larry Bird has decided to end his tenure as president of the Pacers.
Bird is “100 percent sure” he will not return as president of the team, a person with direct knowledge of the situation told The Star on Monday.
Bird will meet with franchise owner Herb Simon on Tuesday to finalize his departure.
Bird spoke like he was planning to return for another season during his season-ending news conference last month.
“(I want to talk to Simon about) the direction of the team, what kind of job he thinks we’re doing, if there’s anything he sees that we should be doing better,” Bird said May 30. “Just a number of questions. I’ve got a lot of them written down to ask him, and hopefully we can get the answers we like and move on.”
Donnie Walsh is expected to return to the Pacers in some capacity.
Brandon Roy will attempt a comeback to the NBA and his top suitors are the Bulls, Mavericks, Pacers and Wolves, according to sources.
Roy's recovery from chronic knee problems has been recently spurred by undergoing the platelet rich plasma therapy procedure, sources said.
The Golden State Warriors have also expressed strong interest with Roy. The Warriors' general manager, Bob Myers, was Roy's agent with the Wasserman Media Group.
Several teams could be willing to use their full-mid level exception for Roy, sources said.
Indiana could have an advantage in pursuing Roy due to the presence of Kevin Pritchard, who was general manager of the Blazers when he was drafted.
The Pacers are hosting their second draft workout of the year on Thursday.
Will Barton (Memphis), Kent Bazemore (Old Dominion), Jae Crowder (Marquette), Darius Miller (Kentucky), Khris Middleton (Texas A&M) and Jeffery Taylor (Vanderbilt) will participate.